A notorious crime boss from Hawaii has died of a suspected overdose while in federal custody, according to a report from the state’s medical examiner. The death of 52-year-old Michael Mikey Kamealoha, a convicted leader of a prominent Hawaiian crime syndicate, occurred on December 24 while he was serving a federal sentence for racketeering and drug trafficking offences.
Kamealoha, who had a long criminal history, was arrested several years ago for his involvement in organized crime, including operating illicit gambling and drug distribution networks across Hawaii. Authorities had been monitoring his activities for years before his arrest. In 2019, he was convicted on multiple charges, including running a criminal enterprise and trafficking methamphetamine. He had been serving a 25-year sentence at a high-security federal facility on the mainland.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons (BOP), Kamealoha was found unresponsive in his cell early on the morning of December 24. Prison medical staff immediately attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards. The BOP quickly notified the FBI, as well as Kamealoha’s family, and began an investigation into the cause of death.
A subsequent autopsy conducted by the Hawaii Department of the Medical Examiner confirmed that Kamealoha died from a drug overdose. While the exact substance remains unclear, sources within the investigation suggest that it was likely fentanyl or a similar opioid. The use of such drugs has been a growing concern in U.S. prisons, where inmates sometimes manage to obtain illegal substances despite tight security measures. Kamealoha’s death has raised questions about the security protocols in place at federal facilities, particularly in relation to the ongoing issue of contraband drugs entering prisons. Despite his criminal activity, Kamealoha had reportedly built a significant network inside the prison system, which may have played a role in the incident.
The crime boss’ death is likely to have far-reaching implications, not only for law enforcement in Hawaii but also for federal agencies tasked with managing high-risk inmates. While his death marks the end of one chapter in Hawaii’s organized crime saga, the investigation into his network and the circumstances surrounding his overdose continues. Officials have promised to continue reviewing security measures at the facility, aiming to prevent future incidents involving drugs and ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff.